What do you do at id Software (or more specifically on RAGE) and how long have you worked at the company?

I’ve been a Programmer here for three and a half years. I’m responsible for large sections of our game play code. At times including the player weapons, the mission system, the GUI’s, and I’ve dipped my toe into most of the systems we have.

One of the best things about working at id is the creative freedom and responsibility all the developers have. I have also been allowed significant input into the design of our mission system and other areas of our game.

When did you decide you wanted to get into game development?

I’ve always been completely fascinated with games. I have invented my own table top games and played with designs since I was old enough to read. I have been fortunate. I figured out that I have the mindset and a talent for programming, which became my ticket into the video game industry. I’m lucky I get paid to do what I love.

Why do you think working at id is the best job in the world?

It’s hard to imagine a more stimulating environment. I’m surrounded by some of the very best developers in the industry, and they expect better than the best. The variety of challenges I face each day, make it exciting to come to work.

What’s your proudest accomplishment at id?

Just being a part of the group that has brought RAGE to the point it’s at is the highlight of my career.

Do you remember the first game you ever played?

Space Invaders at the pizza parlor. The process of thinking about it brought a lot of great gaming moments to mind however. The time I skipped a final in order to upgrade my machine to get it ready for QUAKE on the LAN. Loading up Fallout 3 and learning that they’d actually made it better than the series I already loved so deeply. At one point, living with five other gamers and only having one working computer in the house, we had to setup a white board and schedule time slots in which we could play. That first game started something that has been a focus of my life ever since.

If you’ve got a dinner reservation for two and you can invite one game developer to join you?

That’s hard… I’m lucky enough to already work with Carmack… I have to cheat and name four: Sid Meier, Todd Howard, Tim Cain, and Richard Garriott. I would love to add twenty more people to the list. I won’t, but asking for just one is too hard.

What games have you been playing lately? Anything in particular that stood out?

I’ve been working my way through the New Vegas expansion packs. Very interesting and a lot of fun. Gears of War 3 looks great, and I’m excited to try that next.

What are your non-gaming hobbies?

I like to take photos. I have a guitar I haven’t spent enough time with lately. Showing my wife how special she is.